The Prime Minister Milojko Spajić held a meeting at the Vatican with Pope Leo XIV, alongside Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Secretary of State, and Archbishop Richard Gallagher.

During their friendly conversation, both parties expressed their contentment regarding the positive state of bilateral relations. The discussions also included the Montenegrin government’s collaboration with religious communities.

Topics addressed included regional dynamics in the Western Balkans and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

During a warm and extended audience with the head of the Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV—which lasted considerably longer than initially planned—Prime Minister Spajić reaffirmed the robust ties between Montenegro and the Holy See. These relations are historically significant and built on mutual respect, tracing back to the 19th century when Prince Nikola signed the first Concordat. As an honor for our nation, Prime Minister Spajić expressed our anticipation that all conditions for the opening of the Apostolic Nunciature in Montenegro would be satisfied by the end of July.

This occasion marked the first official meeting between a Montenegrin leader and the newly elected head of the Catholic Church, elected on May 8, 2025.

In attendance were Minister of Foreign Affairs Ervin Ibrahimović, Chief of the Office of the Prime Minister Branko Krvavac, and Chargé d’Affaires at the Embassy of Montenegro to the Holy See and the Sovereign Military Order of Malta Milica Petrović.